The Best Cheap Hotels in San José from SAR 152 in 2026

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Our top choices for San José cheap hotels

In-room safe, desk, soundproofing, cribs (free)

1. Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Rio Segundo

Gregory

SAR 379

SAR 429 total

includes taxes & fees

5 Oct - 6 Oct

32-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV

Room, 1 Queen Bed | Down comforters, in-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board

Down comforters, in-room safe, desk, iron/ironing board

2. City Express by Marriott San Jose Costa Rica

Ulloa

Nidia

SAR 267

SAR 301 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Sep - 28 Sep

Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking | Premium bedding, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace

3. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica

Ciudad Cariari

Alexis

SAR 306

SAR 346 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Sep - 23 Sep

Body treatments, body wraps, body scrubs, facials

4. Barceló San José

Uruca

Philip

SAR 352

SAR 398 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

5. Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House

Corazón de Jesús

Kirsti

SAR 112

SAR 152 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Sep - 20 Sep

6. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Cacique

Nidia

SAR 398

SAR 450 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

7. Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

Carmen

RAHUL

SAR 289

SAR 327 total

includes taxes & fees

24 Sep - 25 Sep

The Apex | Premium bedding, down comforters, in-room safe, desk

Rooftop bar, alfresco dining, open daily

8. Hotel Presidente

Catedral

Thomas

SAR 364

SAR 411 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

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Top San José Hotel Reviews

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Comfortable bed , clean and quiet!"

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton

10/10 Excellent

"Loved staying here!"

Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

10/10 Excellent

"-"

Frequently asked questions

What is San José like for travelers on a budget?

San José has a variety of cheap accommodations and things to do, making it a budget-friendly vacation choice. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Central Park, National Theater of Costa Rica, and Plaza de la Cultura.

What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in San José?

Based on reviews, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free full breakfast and free WiFi. Other choices to stay on the cheap include Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center and Viajero San José Hostel.

How many cheap hotels should I expect to find in San José?

Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among Expedia's 31 budget hotels in San José.

When is the best time for a budget trip to San José?

Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to San José, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually March and April with an average temp of 68°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 66°F. The rainiest months in San José are October, June, September, and August, with each month seeing an average of 26 inches of rainfall.

What is there to see and do in San José?

San José attracts visitors with its top museums and majestic volcano, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then plan some activities that cost very little. Explore and snap photos of landmarks like Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Mercado Central and San Pedro Mall.

How can I get to San José and get around on a budget?

Scoping out the transportation options in San José is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The closest airport is 4.4 mi (7.1 km) from the center in San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), which is 9.6 mi (15.5 km) away. San José might not have many public transit choices so a rental car could be a reasonable alternative to explore more of the area.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on San José Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for San José cheap hotels

1. Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

2. City Express by Marriott San Jose Costa Rica